Manson Richard Alley

Manson Richard Alley passed peacefully to his heavenly home on September 9, 2024 with family at his side. He was born to Lecel and Marion Cantrell Alley in Spartanburg, South Carolina on July 19, 1943, the first of three sons, his brothers Charles (deceased) and Paul. Manson was married to Sherry Pruit Alley, his childhood love, for almost 60 years before her passing on March 8, 2024.

Manson and Sherry grew up in the same church and that connection kept them together while attending different schools and colleges. They were married on June 13, 1964. Manson graduated from Wofford College on May 30, 1965 with a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Mathematics, and went to work as a banker in Spartanburg.

Manson and Sherry were blessed with two children—a daughter in 1969 and a son in 1973. Manson is survived by both of his children Sharon Alley, and Richard Alley (wife Jessica), four grandchildren, and one great grandchild.

Manson and the family moved to seven different cities in three states as Manson’s career in banking developed. He started in the loan collections department of C&S National Bank and quickly became a Vice President in the bank’s installment loan department. Not long thereafter his hard work was rewarded when he was recruited to join Northwestern Bank, a regional bank in North Carolina. When Northwestern Bank was acquired by a larger bank, Manson and the family stopped off in Charlotte, NC at the bank’s headquarters briefly before making his final career move to Jacksonville, Florida in 1987. In Florida, Manson, as a Senior Vice President, oversaw the Consumer Credit Lending Division of the bank for the state of Florida for fourteen years until his retirement in 2001.

Over the years, Manson’s generous and outgoing spirit led him to volunteer for many organizations. His love for Christ was the driving force behind his work. A member of Deermeadows Baptist Church for thirty-seven years, he served in too many roles to count. He was a Deacon for many years and also served several terms on the Finance committee and frequently volunteered with domestic and international missions. He was a leader with the Boy Scouts of America, volunteering with his son’s patrol and camping with the troop. He volunteered helping to build and improve the grounds at Seamark Ranch, his favorite home for children and in recent years was very active raising funds for the ALS Association.

Manson’s easy and outgoing personality shined brightly in his daily walk. His friendly demeanor was such that he never encountered a stranger. He was always the first to lend a hand to help a friend, neighbor, even someone he’d just met. When his wife was diagnosed with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease), which ravaged her body over the last eight years he was unwavering as he lived out his commitment to her in serving as her caregiver and fulfilling his wedding day vows.

Manson was a shining example of Christ’s commandment to love your neighbors. He was a beloved son, brother, husband, brother-in-law, father, father-in-law, grandfather and great-grandfather. His love and light will be greatly missed.

In lieu of flowers, we request that donations be made to the Permanent Endowment Fund of Deermeadows Baptist Church. 9780 Baymeadows Road, Jacksonville, FL 32256.

The memorial service will be held on September 21, 2024 at 11:00. Visitation preceding the service at Deermeadows Baptist Church.